That is our "Checker Trivia" question of the Day"? Some might say a copy of the "6th" in one hand and a glass of Votka in the other. I personally would say that it takes a lot of internal strength of character, commitment, dedication, sacrifice and years of hard study just to name a few things, but to really know lets ask Alex--our current World Champion--for some of his insights and views concerning this question (reader comments will also be welcomed). "Inky"

If it's a "Trivia Question of the Day", I'll be glad to observe all options

It will be very interesting for me to read - what other people think about this, and how they would answer on this question, or how they think I will answer on it.

Your first assumptions - alcohol and Sixth - fail. Both businesses actually take you away from this goal. If Sixth won't be materialized - I might be OK for the next 4-6 years. Now I have to move ahead with my study.

Superior knowledge of published play and a knowledge of transpositions is job # 1. Walter Hellman once stated he spent a full year on nothing but ending play and the standard positions. Recoginzing 'themes' and ideas' as they develop in a game is also essential. Wm. Ryan once remarked it was okay to lose a game, just don't lose the same way twice. Alocohol dulls ones mind .

Sincerely:Alan Millhone, PresidentAmerican Checker Federation" AN AVERAGE CHECKER/DRAUGHTS PLAYER "===============================================